A multi-million pound scheme to provide funding for Isle community groups over the next 25 years has been launched.

s Organisations can now apply for grants from The Keadby Wind Farm Community Fund which officially launched at the weekend.

The project is being led by SSE Renewables as part of their scheme to build a 34 turbine wind farm in Keadby, which is due for completion next summer.

For the next 25 years, SSE will award £170,000 annually to the fund, representing an overall investment of more than £4.2 million.

The first round will remain open for applications until January 13 next year, with a rolling programme to lead on from that date.

Jade Fearon, project liaison Officer for SSE, said: “Over the lifetime of the wind farm, the fund has the potential to provide significant benefits to the community and I’m really looking forward to seeing the results.”

Isle MP Andrew Percy said: “This fund has the potential to make a real difference to local community groups and I am delighted that the fund is now being launched.

“I would urge any local group interested in funding to make contact as soon as possible.”

Axholme North Councillor John Briggs added: “I am delighted this fund is now being officially launched and feel that an amount of funding this significant has the opportunity to effect real change in the North Axholme area.”

Fellow ward member Trevor Barker described the weekend’s launch event as a “real opportunity to get the wheels in motion for the many fantastic projects that community members have been talking about.”

The first turbines of the wind farm itself recently powered up, delivering its first electricity to residents’ homes and businesses via the National Grid.

The fund is open to applications from the North Axholme area.

Community groups can get more information about the fund application process from Jade Fearon on 01724 297768.